Topic Brainstorming

Objective:Leave class with 25 viable senior project

ideas that you are genuinely enthusiastic

about

This is what enthusiasm looks like

Brainstorming Tip #1Turn off your inner critic

The Brain has two hemispheres

Right brain functions

ThoughtIntuitionCreativityArt &

Music

Left brain functionsAnalytic Thought

Logic

LanguageScience &

Math

The Right Brain keeps you from turning into Spock

Right brain functions

ThoughtIntuitionCreativityArt &

Music

The Left Brain keeps you from turning into a Space Hippie

Left brain functionsAnalytic Thought

Logic

LanguageScience &

Math

To generate good ideas, you must silence your inner critic

Right brain functions

ThoughtIntuitionCreativityArt &

Music

Left brain functions

That idea’s dumb.It will never work.

…And let your creative side play

Right brain functions

Left brain functions

This is fun!

How do I do that?

Limit your time!Don’t give your brain time to criticize.

Give yourself 20 minutes to come up with 50 ideas.

Record your ideas on sticky notes

IDEA 1

IDEA 3

IDEA 2

IDEA 4Organize them later

Or mind maps!

Stay away from the computer - it will slow you down

Collaborate with others

In five years, what do I hope to have accomplished?

Make lists of interests, hobbies, goals, concerns

What do I want to do better?

What do I want to learn more about?

What experiences do I want to have?

What controversial issues do I feel strongly about?

What professions am I interested in?

What problems do I want to see solved?

What organizations or groups do I admire?

Where would I like to travel?

Brainstorming Tip #2Look for inspiration elsewhere

Where?

Reference books

Magazines Databases

LIBRARY RESOURCES